Identifying Your Life’s Mission

This Rosh Hashanah, electrify your life with purpose.

After six months of working for the company, it’s time for your evaluation. You walk into the boardroom, where three designer-suit-clad personnel managers are sitting behind a mahogany desk. The one on the left scans your file, looks up at you accusingly, and says, “I see here that you did not report for work at 9 am one time during this entire period.”

The woman in the middle shakes her head and remarks, “This is a Fortune 500 Company. Instead of a jacket and tie, you report for work wearing jeans.”

The man on the right stares at the papers in his hand and says grimly, “Our surveillance cameras show that you spend less than 10% of your working hours at your desk. The rest of the time you’re walking around the building.”

The first evaluator shoots the question: “Do you have anything to say for yourself?”

“Yes," you reply with confidence, "I was hired as the night watchman.”

Rosh Hashanah is a time of evaluation. But to accurately assess your performance this year, you have to know your job description. Judaism asserts that every soul comes into this world charged with a unique, positive purpose.

No one has ever or will ever come into this world with the exact same mission as yours.

According to the great 16th century Kabalistic master known as the Arizal, no one has ever or will ever come into this world with the exact same mission as yours. The light you are meant to shine into the world is yours alone, as individual as your fingerprint, as personal as your voiceprint.

Your mission can be interpersonal, such as counseling couples with troubled marriages, or scholarly, such as researching ancient Chinese culture, or an expression of your talent, such as painting landscapes or playing the violin. It can be concrete, such as establishing a home for Alzheimer’s patients, or abstract, such as manifesting in the world the Divine attribute of truth or patience. It can be on a large scale, such as inaugurating the recycling system in your city, or on a small scale, such as caring for your handicapped child with joy. You may have two, or at most, three different missions, which can be consecutive (after finishing one job you start another) or simultaneous. Yet, even if there are 500 marriage counselors in your city, your particular approach and way of helping people is unique. Not one of us can be replaced—ever.

Imagine you are an undercover agent sent into Iran. You’ve had years of training, have two vital contacts in Tehran, and are equipped with the latest hi-tech spy gadgetry. Only one thing is lacking: You have no idea what your mission is.

Many of us go through life like that: We follow the route laid out by society: going to college, finding a job, getting married, raising a family, but with no clear sense of the unique mission entrusted to us. We are pulled in many different directions, feeling compromised in what we do and guilty for what we don’t do. Identifying our mission is, according to Rabbi Aryeh Nivin, the first step in leading a life of vibrancy and joy. “When you intersect with your life’s purpose,” he explains, “you feel excitement.”

The CEO is not going to dole out a million-dollar budget to an employee who doesn’t have a carefully worked out proposal.

Knowing your personal mission is essential preparation for Rosh Hashanah. On Rosh Hashanah God apportions to each of us life, health, livelihood, and everything else. What is your plan for how you propose to use the life God gives you? The CEO is not going to dole out a million-dollar budget to an employee who doesn’t have a carefully worked out proposal.

We are used to praying for life, health, and livelihood as ends in themselves. In the Divine accounting, however, life, health, and livelihood are simply the tools – the hi-tech spy gadgetry – that will enable you to accomplish your mission.

Rabbi Nivin offers two methods for discovering your mission:

Ask yourself (and write down): What were the five or ten most pleasurable moments in my life?

Ask yourself: If I inherited a billion dollars and had six hours a day of discretionary time, what would I do with the time and money?

When answering the first question, eliminate the universal transcendent moments, such as witnessing the beauty of nature or listening to music. Your mission, of course, may have to do with nature or music, but on a much more individual level than the high all people feel when they see the Grand Canyon. Although your mission may require hard work or genuine sacrifice, when you are engaged in your life’s mission you experience, as Rabbi Nivin puts it, “This feels so good that I could do it all day long.”

When I did the first exercise, these are the answers I came up with:

When someone in my Johannesburg audience came up after I spoke and told my son, “Your mother’s words changed my life.”

When someone tells me, “Your book changed my life.”

When reading the comments to my Aish.com articles, I see, “This was exactly what I needed to read today.” When I see that the reader’s way of thinking or acting is impacted by what I wrote.

When someone passing through Israel (often on the way to India) comes to talk to me about Judaism, and two or five or ten years later I find out that they stayed in Jerusalem, starting learning Torah, and are observing the mitzvot.

When my children mention that they talked to God about something bothering them and I realize that their relationship with God is strong.

The common theme that emerged for me was that my mission is: “To inspire people, through writing and speaking, to move forward in their spiritual/personal development and relationship with God.” That’s what excites and energizes me. That’s why, to my friends’ amazement, when I am lecture touring, I can speak in five different cities in five days, waking up at dawn every day to make an early flight and giving a three-hour workshop twice a day, and, at 63 years old, never feel tired. Knowing my mission is like installing an energy pack in my life.

Barbara Silverstein is a wife, mother, and hospice nurse. When talking to me recently about her “life’s mission,” she shrugged. Although her personal and professional lives are fraught with difficulties, she soldiers on with dedication and integrity. I asked her what she would do if she had loads of money and six hours a day of discretionary time. Barbara thought for a few minutes, then replied with passion: “I would set up a Jewish outreach center for the elderly. In my work with the terminally ill, I’m always facing men or women who are about to lose their spouse and they say to me, ‘I don’t know what I’ll do about the funeral. I don’t have a rabbi.’ They want a spiritual connection with their Jewish roots, but they’re clueless about how to do it.” The more that Barbara talked, the more fervent she became.

“Are you kidding?” Barbara replied. “Between my family and my work, I don’t have time for anything else.”

Remembering Rabbi Nivin’s advice, I suggested: “Take a half hour twice a week, and sit down with a pen and paper, and just start brainstorming. Write down whatever comes to your mind, what the first steps would be, and what you want it to look like in the end. And ask the Almighty for help in making it happen. He can give you whatever He deems you should have. And then see if the opportunity to take the next step emerges.”

Two weeks later, Barbara phoned me, brimming with excitement. “This has really gotten my imagination going,” she effused. “Everything I’ve learned throughout my life is coming in handy with this plan. I don’t know if it’ll ever amount to anything, but just thinking about it is like an electrical charge in my whole day. My husband and kids ask me why I’m smiling so much.”

The Creator has outfitted you with a unique set of aptitudes, talents, and interests perfectly suited to what you are charged with accomplishing. By following your inclinations and abilities, you may already have found your mission. Sometimes your mission is deposited in your lap, such as the birth of a special needs child. The National Tay-Sachs Association, for example, was founded by the parents of children suffering from Tay-Sachs; the parents’ daunting challenge metamorphosed into their life’s mission.

If your mission is not yet clear to you, take a half hour between now and Rosh Hashanah and reflect on, “What do I really want to do with my life?” Perhaps you work full time developing software for Microsoft, but you’ve always felt a tug to write a book about internet addiction. Perhaps your greatest pleasure is tending your vegetable garden in suburban Detroit, but you’ve always dreamed of living on an agricultural settlement in Israel. Such inner urges may be whisperings from God, the secret message from Headquarters disclosing your true mission.

Guilt, Respect, Validation

Clarity about your mission dissipates guilt for all the worthy endeavors you’re NOT engaged in. Once you realize that you’re in this world to develop a new healing modality for autism, you won’t feel guilty that you’re not volunteering for the local soup kitchen or marching on the U.N. to protest anti-Israel discrimination.

Once I identified my mission, I stopped feeling guilty that I really don’t like to cook for myriads of Shabbat guests. I also understood why I love writing for Aish.com and its spiritually upwardly mobile readers.

The concept of each person having an individual life’s mission is a key to respecting other people. Otherwise, you may feel that what’s important to you should be important to everyone. You’re an environmental activist? You may blame your sister for being oblivious to the environment without appreciating that her mission is to fight Holocaust denial. You belong to a group that feeds the homeless? You may find it reprehensible that that other group is apparently heedless to the homeless and spends all their time in pro-Israel activism on campus. Being able to say, “This is my mission and that is theirs,” is the gateway to true tolerance and respect.

When the shofar sounds, be prepared to declare, “This is my job, and I’m working on it.”

Knowing your individual mission validates your life and releases you from the pernicious habit of comparing yourself to others. Jonah Salk’s mark on the world may seem as deep as a crater while your taking care of your handicapped brother may seem like a fingernail impression, but from a spiritual perspective the light you are shining into the world is unique and is exactly the light you came here to radiate.

One more point: Fulfilling your individual life’s mission does not exempt you from your global missions, such as supporting your family or raising your children. Starting an outreach center for the elderly may have to wait until your children are grown. Writing that book on internet addiction may have to be tucked into your few spare hours after your full-time job. Don’t worry. The God who assigned you your mission will make sure you have everything you need—including time now or later—to fulfill it.

So when the shofar sounds this Rosh Hashanah and you stand for your annual evaluation, be prepared to declare, “This is my job, and I’m working on it.”

Sara Yoheved Rigler’s all-encompassing online marriage program, “Choose Connection: How to Revive and Rejuvenate Your Marriage” is available to Aish.com readers at a special price. Click here for more info: http://www.jewishworkshops.com/webinars/connection/

Featured at Aish.com:

About the Author

Sara Yoheved Rigler is a popular international lecturer on subjects of Jewish spirituality. She has given lectures and workshops in Israel, England, France, South Africa, Mexico, Canada, Chile, Panama, and over 35 American cities. She is one of the most popular authors on Aish.com, world’s biggest Judaism website, and is a columnist for Ami Magazine. Sara Yoheved Rigler is the author of five best-sellers: Holy Woman; Lights from Jerusalem; Battle Plans: How to Fight the Yetzer Hara (with Rebbetzin Tziporah Heller); G-d Winked; and Heavenprints . She gives a weekly Marriage Webinar for Jewish Workshops on a spiritual approach to marriage, with hundreds of members throughout the world. She lives in the Old City of Jerusalem. Her newest book, Emunah with Love and Chicken Soup, the story of Henny Machlis, the Brooklyn-born girl who became a Jerusalem legend, was was released in November, 2016. Her website is: sararigler.com.

The opinions expressed in the comment section are the personal views of the commenters. Comments are moderated, so please keep it civil.

Visitor Comments: 110

(97)
Anonymous,
October 2, 2016 1:26 PM

As an ffb we don't hear enough about individuality. It was so refreshing to read about how we do tick to our own drummer & that's what makes up the orchestra of a beautiful world! Thank you for your validation & for your beautifully articulat

Shana Tova! May Hashem grant you many more fulfilled years in good health

(96)
Andrea Chester,
September 26, 2016 4:04 PM

Thanks....I needed that!

I am bas Noah.....your words reach far beyond spiritually upwardly mobile Jews. Thank you for this. On many levels, for several applications, I needed this article. I find it so interesting...the Economy of our GOD. HE does things, just for me, that aren't JUST for me! At 68, I struggle to figure out my "mission," which has obviously not yet been finished. Thank you.

(95)
Anonymous,
September 13, 2015 4:22 AM

This is a great article and really puts RH and our whole life into prospective. It has definitely a lot of food for thought.I would like to read more about how to figure out what life's mission is and how to really figure out my own. Also how does Bechira work with all this? Any ideas?Thank you!

(94)
Asok,
August 24, 2015 5:44 AM

its a great work

fanastic

(93)
Karla Ober,
August 23, 2015 11:13 PM

Thank you!

Your article was just the motivation I needed to push me to do more of what I was sent here to do!

(92)
Ronda,
August 23, 2015 11:06 PM

Right on Time!!!

This article could not have been written at a better time; I enjoyed every word of it. I will declare my job this Rosh Hashanah.

(91)
Anonymous,
August 23, 2015 4:14 PM

Rigler deserves a mark of 100 working on her life's mission!

Wonderful article, alot of food for thought. Thanks,

(90)
Jong,
August 22, 2015 11:52 PM

Thank you

About five years ago I discovered my life mission and ever since have been working on it. Often I get distracted and restless, but have never regretted having chosen this way. Thank you Sara for the assurance and confirmation in pursuing this path. Excellent writing packed with wisdom!

(89)
Shmuel,
August 17, 2015 10:54 AM

I believe my mission in life is to

eradicate disease in this world and protect god's chosen people.

(88)
Lauren,
June 23, 2015 7:21 PM

Thank you, I needed this today. However, one of my friends and I always talk about how we have multiple interests and passions and we find it hard choosing just one. Right now I'm taking steps to pursue a career teaching and/or in academia because I'm passionate about representation in media, but I still feel called to volunteer for human rights organizations and be involved in social justice causes.

I wish I could find a way to combine all my interests so I would never feel like I'm putting something important to me on the back burner. Sounds like I have some more listening and seeking to do.

(87)
Sarah,
May 7, 2015 4:44 AM

Another beautiful and needed article

This one brought a tear to my eye because it instills so much hope. I forwarded this one to friends and know it's an answer to prayer.

(86)
JodyB,
September 17, 2014 5:53 PM

Thank you!

Absolutely amazing article! It helps to hear that although we may or may not know our life's mission,has my wise bubbly always tells me, "there's a time for everything". Thank you again Sarah, Shana Tova!

(85)
Shoshana H.,
September 11, 2014 11:27 PM

This was a very nice piece but my personal feeling and from shiurim that I've been to, I don't see this as the correct way to finding out one's purpose in life. How can it be that our whole purpose in This World is to do only that what enjoy? Seems a bit strange.

It sounds much more plausible to me - and from teachers I've heard - that our real purpose can be better found from those hundreds of times where we really feel we are tested i.e. in the home, with our spouse, etc etc - where it almost makes us scream and say I can't take this anymore etc and we are still making the same mistakes time after time after time again.

This answer alone sounds too easy to be true - just find what I'd like to do - and that's it!! I can think of a number of things I'd really like to do if I had money, time etc, but if I'd still be terribly lacking in my relationship with my husband etc is this then all Ok as I've already fulfilled my purpose elsewhere?

I

(84)
Anonymous,
September 10, 2014 4:05 AM

Thank you very much for writing such a beautiful message. I am looking forward to putting it into practice!

(83)
John,
September 9, 2014 11:11 PM

Thank you for your insights

Wonderful article Sara,...I am right in the middle of the "seeking and finding and clarifying" of my purpose and your insights have encouraged me gereatly,..thank you very much,..

(82)
Rina,
September 9, 2014 4:03 PM

Torah observance

I enjoyed your article and learned a lot from it, but I think that the mission of every Jew is to observe Torah and mitzvos, both between man and G-d and man and his fellow-man and serve H-shem in this way and to become close to H-shem and that is why we were created. To try to get to some level of being a tzadik.

If a Jew is not doing this, I don't think it will help him very much on Rosh Hashana to say he is painting beautiful artwork. Even if the work of art makes people happy. I also love and appreciate a beautiful piece of artwork or a moving musical composition, but the mitzvah that a Jew performs brings a great light into all the sefiros (worlds) and benefits the entire world more than we can realize.

I'm not saying that we shouldn't paint and create, of course we should. And we can take an aptitude test and see what we are cut out to do and do it and this can bring us great fulfillment, energy and happiness.

But without Torah and mitzvas, that is, observing the mitzvah, we will be in serious trouble on Rosh Hashana, G-d forbid. Also on Yom Kippur and again when we will meet our Creator after 120 years.

so thankful for your insight on personal mission that is inspiring, practical, achievable,!

Thank you! I found your advice to be applicable to all people regardless of faith background and including those without faith. As a Catholic I am very familiar with much of what you advocate: God gifting us and calling us along with the individual and communal components. When you speak of the excitement generated by doing the work you are meant to do I am reminded of one writer's insight to "follow your bliss" for that is where God is calling you. Where I especially appreciate your guidance is in the practical doing and understanding of one's mission in one's own circumstances and time. My friends and I have talked about these points for years without finding that balance, and most importantly that hope for what may yet be. As an older adult too, I sometimes feel disheartened in my believing that now is too late. What an inspiration you are to me! And finally, you put so well the need for recognition, respect and support for others' missions or ministries, while understanding our own prerogatives in choosing not to participate in worthy endeavors we may not even be suited for. Thank you for supporting the innate desire in each of us to follow God's dream!

(79)
Frida,
September 8, 2014 12:49 AM

Mrs. Rigler, I want to tell ou that that is year's rosh hashanah will be different for me than the previous and that is thanks to you!

(78)
Anonymous,
September 7, 2014 7:24 PM

liked your article!

Since you enjoy positive comments (who doesn't?) I'm adding mine - great essay. I even took a pen and paper and answered the questions. I bet you know that, for those of us who are annoyed that others don't join in our causes, sometimes they are not out slaying the beast of - fill in the blank - (pollution, poverty, antisemitism, etc). They are lazy bums! It can be annoying for those of us who are "doers." Better not to get annoyed, though, and save your emotions for other things. Thanks!

(77)
Motl,
July 25, 2013 6:27 PM

Thanks for the "how to do it" advice

Hi,I just wanted to thank you heartily for this article, which landed to my screen "by chance". (And I apologize beforehand for this wordy message since English is not my first language).

As many other people, living everyday's life seems difficult enough to even think about a "separate" mission in life (which sounds such a huge endeavor), so I never worried about what my mission is. I thought: "I'm a good person, respect and don’t harm others, respect Shabes lightly, eat kosher and do some mitzvos, so I must be a good Jew AND accomplishing my mission in life since I was ("by chance"?) born Jewish.

Your article taught me otherwise and this is what I learned:1.- Your mission in life must not be seen as a huge, almost impossible endeavor. It would not be given to you if you could not accomplish it.2.- Your mission in life will energize at every moment you since you know it’s an important, “universal” task you where send to perform.3.- Without having a clear mission in life, life might be flavorless, even boring. Achieving goals will always give you pleasure, at least momentarily, but overall, you may see your life back at old age and say: So what. What for. I just followed or reacted to what Life put in my path every day. That’s not good enough.

But the MOST IMPORTANT piece of info I got from your article, was HOW TO DO IT. I’m not a practical guy at all. I’m a thinker, I come with ideas, conceptualize things, but I tremendous difficulty with the execution and follow up. So telling me how to do it, the few steps needed to start writing down your mission in life, was for me invaluable.

Many thanks. I truly needed this article in my life.

Best regards and may Hashem bless you, your family and readers with wisdom and enlightenment.Motl

(76)
Nefesh,
September 17, 2012 10:42 PM

Thankful for you!

I just want to say I thank Hashem for you, and for what he has entrusted you with, thank you for the great article! It helped me out a lot, to remember those things that I enjoy doing and that have had a good impact on others just like your article has helped me. Shana Tova!

(75)
Ellen,
September 10, 2012 4:16 PM

Very good, but don't forget

I loved this article. It really spoke to me on a personal level. However, one thing that stood out to me is that some people whose life mission is in business rather than service may feel that their mission is somehow not good enough. But if G-d gave them the vision then is is good! Even the business man whose factory makes the ties that go on bread bags or some other seemingly insignificant thing, is following G-d's design for his life and is a blessing to others. After all, that bread tie keeps are bread fresh and gives us pleasure every day!

(74)
Yael,
September 4, 2012 1:12 PM

NOT "Just"

I would like to encourage the wives and mothers on here that no matter where you are - home, outside the home - that our first "assignment" if you will - IS our spouse and/or children. If you really want to get technical your first assignment is to yourself. Taking care of yourself so you can be balanced to give healthy love, care and appreciation for those in our lives. I love this article. Sara wrote it from a very insightful perspective it seems and I don't believe anywhere in it can one feel she is de-riding the mission of wife or mother. Everyone has a different situation - everyone has different supports. As a spouse and mother of 7 I am slowly beginning to understand the "phases" of life and what we can do in the now and what is best saved for a more condusive future time. Ha Shem never puts more on us than we can endure and He also never fills our time so full that there is no time for just "being". :)

(73)
Anonymous,
August 30, 2012 11:46 AM

Aishes Chayil / Mommy

My greatest pleasure in the whold world is giving to my family in a way that is pleasing to them. As a female, it's disturbing for me to read an article suggesting I look outside of my immediate realm in quest of satisfaction and meaning in life. Clarification would be greatly appreciated.

Anonymous,
September 7, 2012 4:22 PM

A Different View

Dear Aishes Chayil/Mommy,
Like my mother, I agree that giving to one's family is an honor and a gift. But have you ever wondered for a minute what life would be like if you weren't blessed with your family? My husband and I have been married for almost 5 years and have worked with both Rabbis and doctors to be blessed with children, but alas it is not Hashem's will at this time. I would love to be able to devote my time toward giving to family. But such trials have forced me to always be oriented towards self-growth and working on myself. No, I do not write this to make you feel guilty for the berachos that you have. I am writing this to make you aware of how many other people out there could benefit from your tefillos and your tzedaka in their quest to achieve the same berachos in life. All of klal yisroel is interconnected and your tefillos or doing one more mitzvah, such as calling into a hafrashas challah ring in your area when baking challah (in zechus for someone else to have a refuah sheleimah) can mean the difference between happiness and pain for someone else in klal yisroel.

Anonymous,
September 10, 2012 1:05 PM

Aishes Chayil/Mommy

Your words have touched me deeply. As we approach Rosh Hashana, I will certainly count my blessings and daven fervently for you amongst those in Klal Yisroel who await their personal yeshuos. May you have the strength to continue placing your faith and trust in Hashem and may He bless you with "bracha ad beli dai".

anon,
August 29, 2013 3:45 PM

I don't think that that is what the writer is saying. The point is that one's mission is personal. If your personal mission is taking care of your family and being the best wife and mother you can be, well, good for you. For someone else, even another woman, they might feel that their mission is something else. It's not about gender but about being consciously aware of what you are devoting your life to.

Dodi,
September 8, 2014 12:48 AM

Outside the Lines

My dear, Moms are the foundation of Judaism. While our Fathers and Sages gave us the many facets of our faith, the Mothers gave us the very foundation from which to grow. After all, Israel could not have had Judah, Simeon, Isachar, Joseph, and the others WITHOUT the Mothers.

Perhaps it is your mission to give the world the next Salk, Schick, or Einstein. Or perhaps it is your mission to give the world the next Beverly Sills. You never know unless you ask. The point is to ASK.

HaShem will only plant seeds of discontent in the life of someone who is NOT fulfilling their mission. Perhaps it is your mission to write the next international Jewish Cookbook. It doesn't matter, the key is to ask HaShem if there is another thing that you are here for.

For me, it is in process. I have reared my children, buried my parents, and stopped being in the workforce. I have accomplished many things, yet there remains more to do. I am daily asking "what's next?"

This Rosh HaShanna will be most significant because it marks for me both an ending and a beginning. Like me, you need to ASK. For children grow, families grow apart, and life changes. Are you prepared for those changes? Perhaps this is your mission..to prepare others for those changes. The trick is to think outside the lines of "now".

HaShem willing, there is tomorrow, and tomorrow is always different than today.

(72)
Karinne Bleiwas,
August 30, 2012 10:37 AM

Wow. Wow, wow, wow.
Thank you for this very concrete and tangible article!

(71)
Anonymous,
August 30, 2012 3:01 AM

does every person have such a grand purpose?

Is it possible that my purpose in this world is just to be a supportive wife, and a good mother? Or is there definitely something I'm supposed to do on a more public scale that I'm missing?

David K.,
August 30, 2012 4:21 PM

Too important to be preceded by a "just"

I will not assume to speak for Sara, but I doubt that she meant to diminish the important work and mitzvah of maintaining of a family. I would not put a “just” before being a “supportive wife, and a good mother.” Indeed, this world can use many, many, more supportive spouses and good parents. If I may paraphrase, “HaShem is not going to ask us why we were not a Moses- or a Sara Yoheved Rigler. Rather we will be asked if we fulfilled our unique role- and if we did so honestly, lovingly and as wisely as we could.” Yasher koach.

(70)
Ann,
August 29, 2012 2:40 PM

The Night Watchman

The opening story of the night watchman's evaluation made me smile. I experienced a similar "assessment" many years ago, when the Israeli ambassador and his wife attended a gala event I was hired to organize. My boss was not an easy woman to work for, and she was never happy with anything her employees did. So it was that on the night of the big event, she came up to me and, motioning toward a banquet table occupied by two quiet, modestly attired guests, she asked contemptuously: "Are those two a couple of your friends?" Clearly, she was implying that I had "snuck in" two friends to enjoy, for free, this prestigious event. HaShem allowed me a moment of humour when I replied, truthfully: "They are the undercover bodyguards for the Israeli Ambassador and his Wife." I don't recall that she ever bothered me again.

(69)
Anonymous,
August 29, 2012 9:02 AM

I know what I need to do

Thank you so much! As I was reading your article, I had this feeling gnawing away at me. I know exactly what I need to do. In the past I have told myself that I don't 'have the time' but it's not true. With Hashem's help, I would like to start working on this before Rosh Hashana starts. Thank you for speaking to me.

(68)
lynn,
August 27, 2012 4:05 PM

great read

thanks - helping understand my jewish roots - things are actually making more sense and falling into place -

(67)
Jane,
August 14, 2012 9:24 PM

I am beginning a quest for my life's purpose and this helped crystallize the process.

I am at a crossroads in my life's journey and I am in the midst of writing a vision statement. This article helped to put that task into the spiritual perspective of Rosh Hashanah. Thank you for the push!

(66)
Francis Otoo,
August 9, 2012 8:44 AM

eye opener

your message has really given me a lot of insight God bless you..

(65)
peggy lanton,
July 31, 2012 11:43 AM

Having just lost my mother, I will now have the time to do "what I've been thinking about doing". This article hit the bull's eye and I know I will reread it many times during the next few months as I transition from caregiver to being able to choose what to do with my time. Thank you Sara

(64)
SusanE,
January 8, 2012 12:13 AM

Happy to have found this.

Thank you Sara Yoheved Rigler for the information and advice in this article. I missed reading it when it was first published here on Aish. So glad it was chosen to be read again and that I saw it tonight.. I am better for having read it.

(63)
Rodolfo Rabonza,
October 12, 2011 2:58 AM

Life's Mission

Identifying life's mission is not easy. Just when you thought that you got it figured out, something comes up to seemingly confuse one. But when one's eyes are always open to Hashem's guidance, one will not be mistaken.

(62)
Joey,
October 7, 2011 7:33 AM

Thank you!

I will keep your advice in mind as I try to find and fulfill my mission. God bless!

(61)
Sandra Johnson,
October 3, 2011 6:32 AM

You must discipline yourself with Tehillim

This is not as easy as it sounds. It cleans me it reminds me of my weaknesses and strengthes,but it reminds me that it is Hashems will that I succeed and he loves me. so he will keep his promise and help me with his supporting lovealong the way.This excercise is impossible without a true relationship to Torah in your heart not just your head. Because understanding is a combination of what we have learned applied through the prism of compassion,and love for God . When we make an accounting of what he has already done it gives us hope.

(60)
orli katz,
October 3, 2011 2:41 AM

thank you

Mrs. Rigler,
As always, your words ring as true and clear as the clarion call of the shofar. Thank you for your inspiring words-in their merit and the merit of thousands of other divrei chizuk may Hashem bless you and your family with a vast abundance of health, peace, prosperity, nachas and happiness!
Truly,
Orli Katz

(59)
Yehudis,
October 2, 2011 3:34 PM

Dear Mrs. Rigler,

I really enjoy your writing and have read "Holy Woman" twice; it's extraordinary. I discussed this article on Rosh Hashana and my husband said that the same Kabbala that talks about a soul's mission, also says that that which is HARDEST for you, is likely to be your mission. Yes, you are supposed to use the gifts G-d gave you, but that is not synonymous with your soul's mission. To make up an example: A woman might love cake decorating and be great at it, and she might use this gift to bring joy to people, but her soul mission might be to fully cover her hair which she finds exceedingly hard. I asked my husband, so what would you tell Mrs. Rigler is her life's mission - cooking for numerous guests? Is that what you would advise her to do? He said he would certainly encourage you to keep writing and inspiring your audiences AND would tell you to do what's difficult for you too. In summary: excitement, passion, what comes naturally to you, are no indication that this is your soul's mission; on the contrary. Look for that which comes hard to you, and that is most likely to be what your soul came down here to accomplish.

YH,
November 4, 2011 2:30 PM

What is my mission

I'm listening to a lecture in which the answer given to "what is my life's mission - using my gifts or facing my challenges" is both. Using my gifts for others and facing my challenges for myself.

sarah,
September 16, 2012 9:21 AM

both

The thing that we're good at and enjoy doing is our life mission.
That which we don't enjoy and have trouble with is the thing that we are sent here to rectify.

(58)
Judith,
October 2, 2011 4:27 AM

Thank you!

(57)
Stephanie,
September 29, 2011 7:44 AM

Not just an energy boost ; a shot in the arm, too....

I'm feeling a little run-down at work, lately and overwhelmed with commitments that I often feel like I'm falling just short of my own expectations in filling, and reading this really helped remind me to keep things in perspective, to be grateful, to engage, and to indulge in doing what I enjoy not because it's part of work but because it's what I enjoy. I'm doing a couple of things--all of which I call "work"--and while my work, for what it's worth, may well not be my mission (unfortunately, I'm still groping around for clarity much of the time on that front), I do see it as instrumental in whatever my mission probably is--a kind of extended boot camp or training ground, maybe--so it's important that I stay with it.
But more than the bit of extra energy I get from just relaxing a little and then refocusing (maybe a rough equivalent to a cup of coffee...), articles like these that help keep things in perspective help keep me immune from the many diseases of modern life, like stress and low patience and all the ills that come along with them!
Shana tova, and may it all be revealed as good!

(56)
Anonymous,
September 28, 2011 9:43 PM

wonderful message

It brought me to tears right in time for Rosh Hashana awakening- thanks for sharing your great thoughts!

(55)
Anonymous,
September 28, 2011 4:45 PM

Great article - but want to add that napkin folding can be important too!

I'm writing this as my kids decorate our Rosh Hashana table with crafts and - yes - napkins that they learned how to make in a Jewish women's magazine! Even mundane things like napkin folding can help some people enrich their "yiddishkeit", Jewish feeling. Shana tova.

(54)
Anonymous,
September 28, 2011 2:42 PM

This article was great but i feel like its easier said than done. I find it very difficult to come up with what to focus on in life.

(53)
Eliana,
September 28, 2011 7:35 AM

Perfect Rosh Hashanah Motivator

This was a beautiful article and just the thing I needed to read to give this year's Rosh Hashanah an added boost! Thank you!

(52)
Alex Olvera,
September 28, 2011 5:54 AM

Truth comes from all kinds of sources, but ultimately comes from G-d himself. Thanks for reflecting truth into my life today, through your article. As I am continuously seeking G-d, I find myself asking 2 questions over and over and over again "what is my mission in life? where do I fit?" I suppose that keeping on asking only means I have not yet arrived at the answer. Thank you for providing some practical advice on how to come to this realization. We shall see what HaShem has in store. L' Shana Tovah, Sara.

tamar,
September 28, 2011 1:13 PM

You are not alone

Alex, you are not alone in this question. I think every human being on the face of the planet asks this question all the time. That is because unfortunately we no longer have prophecy to help us have a vision of what direction we should be taking, and we have to rely on subtle cues going on in our lives and trying to correctly decipher the correct direction by weeding out the right and wrong cues. Judaism asserts that fulfilling our spiritual potential keeps us happy and energized all the time. Depression and anxiety are actually tricks of the yetze hora. They can be destructive, but Hashem actually injected these emotions into people for a constructive purpose. Deoression, anxiety and feeling stuck are all powerful reminders that we are not growing and fulfilling our potential, and that we need to change course in the focus of our lives. This can mean dramatic or small changes, depending on who you are and what your needs are. if we harness this correctly and take proper actions, it's amazing how the depression and anxiety disappears and we feel reenergized and infused with meaning and purpose. It doesn't mean life is easy or that we can shirk our important obligations, but it certainly clues us in as to how we can infuse our lives with true simcha and meaning.

(51)
tzivia,
September 28, 2011 2:41 AM

to anonymous: no moment of life is meaningless.

you have done what you can in this area, which is all that can be expected of you, and not a drop more. Hashem knows the whole thing. Now put it behind you, and trust He will soon put before you the next good thing for you to focus on. No moment of life is meaningless, even when spent on mitzvos unrelated to our individual unique purpose. Hashem loves us even when we are 'only' observing Shabbos 'instead of curing cancer' or whatever. Never despair!

(50)
Anonymous,
September 27, 2011 11:58 PM

Just what I needed

This Rosh Hashanah I am searching for what?
This article has inspired me, helped me more then you could ever know. Hashem is speaking through you to help so many people. Thank you

(49)
Aviva Movsas,
September 27, 2011 11:36 PM

This was a great lesson!

I really think that the message in this article was portrayed beautifully. Thank you so much for you words of wisdom!

(48)
Joan,
September 27, 2011 9:31 PM

You have just restarted my heart!

I had never heard of you before. I just read your email and am totally inspired to follow up. This is what I have been lacking in my whole life - inspiration and direction. Can't wait for further contact. Thank you for "being there"!

(47)
Andy,
September 27, 2011 9:22 PM

nice work, although sounds to me like some speculation presented as fact

"You may have two, or at most, three different missions, which can be consecutive (after finishing one job you start another) or simultaneous." Don't know if that's true.
Maybe many missions within missions as every decision and interaction with others seems to me to effect worlds.
Is it possible G-d gives us gifts and ordeals and we choose our own missions depending on how we progress? Can only one person accomplish a specific mission? Did others have the potential to accomplish Abraham's missions? Can many be moshiach if circumstances are right? One hint that does support your premise seems to be that Torah states there will never be a prophet as great as Moses, so it seems to me his mission could only have been successfully completed by him.

(46)
Osher,
September 27, 2011 7:39 PM

It is true that a purpose and mission energizes and a lack of one is a great way to lead a life of boredom and confusion.

(45)
Miriam,
September 27, 2011 5:24 PM

Sara Yoheved, I love you!

You're the best! Thank you! You helped me so much! I also want to tell you that after hundreds of hours of therapy my relationship with a very difficult person in my life was still atrocious until I read your article about Rav Wolbe's teaching of moving into the light, giving mode. Incredibly, our relationship is soooooo much better. Boy, are you fulfilling your mission, and how!

(44)
Glorianna,
September 27, 2011 4:01 PM

Thanks for ur posting.. I was really touched by this.I've got the message today for those question i had in my mind for God.. Now i can say courageously that " This is my Job and i will focus to achieve it".. Thanks for ur inspiring message.. lLord Bless You from Jerusalem

(43)
Anonymous,
September 27, 2011 3:13 PM

What if your purpose has dried up?

Your article is inspiring and you are certainly on track.
What does one do if the track that one was on dries up? if one has no purpose in the world that can galvanize them as they once knew and experienced? What if they do not know anymore what to ask for, no plan to put before the CEO? Is it time to lay down and die? No. But then what?, What if they are pulled in conflicting directions with no special pull in any of them? what if what inspired them once no longer does, if they see no more point to it?

This is a great article you have written on 'Identifying your life's mission. It spoke to me as I was reading it and I strongly recommend everyone to read it if they haven't found what their mission in life is. We all have a part to play in the era in which we live just as our fore fathers did. We all need to find out what it is and how we are to implement it in the greater overall plan of HaShem.

(38)
Anonymous,
September 27, 2011 8:25 AM

Thank you.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and suggestions. They have enlarged my perspective and resparked my hope and determination.
L'Shana Tova

(37)
Anonymous,
September 27, 2011 2:15 AM

Limor - Don't take no for an answer. It may be that you are supposed to design, invent or create something everyone has needed, but no one came up with. You may make millions from it, or you may make people happy with it. Whether you can support yourself from it or not, you will be fulfilled. Most of the world's greatest inventions were done after many people had said "no" to their inventors, but they persisted. Good luck!

(36)
Terri McMichael,
September 27, 2011 2:10 AM

AGAIN, RIGHT ON THE MARK

I am a 54 year old married woman who lost her mother a year ago this past August, who lost her best friend in the entire universe, and I am struggling to find 'me', STILL. I am the girl who has been a Dental Assistant, A certified Fitness Trainer, A permanent cosmetics technician, a Realtor, a bell 'person'......is constantly questioning 'What is my lifes mission G-d?' I got so much joy from taking care of my mother, and I have always loved the elderly, and I feel so sad that the world seems to forget them, that I now know that G-d has put me on this earth for one reason.....to make the elderly feel loved, important and needed. I dream of what it will be like, when I am old and feeble, yet I still have my 'young' thoughts.....I pray that there will be someone out 'there' who will see through me like an x-ray, and see who I was, and how I got to be where I am now (then). I pray that I wont be stuck in a corner and forgotten, I pray that G-d sees the good things I did in my lifetime, and he rewards me with kind loving people and family to surround me till the end of my time on this Earth. I want to touch the elderly, and make them open up and share with me, what their life was like, and what their dreams were, and what are they sorry that they never got to do? I want to suprise them, and take them out for a fun field trip, take them to a mall duriing the Holidays so they can hear the childrens laughter and see the beautiful lights and hear the songs of Channukah once again. Just because we get old, doesn't mean we no longer matter, and I want to reach out to as many as I can, for as long as MY LIFE will last........ Thank You for this beautiful article...I felt lost today, and I knew that Aish would help me....and again it did.L Shana Tova

(35)
Yael Zoldan,
September 26, 2011 7:35 PM

Thank you for this article....

which gave me a new and purposeful way to look at Rosh Hashana. A happy and healthy new year to you and your family.

(34)
Dimitar,
September 26, 2011 6:54 PM

thank you so much

Absolutely wonderful article. Thank you, Sara!
Shana tova umetuka!

(33)
Anonymous,
September 26, 2011 6:20 PM

Divinely inspired!

Sometimes the epiphany comes in a moment and sometimes it teases the perimeter of your mind for a period of time. But when it comes, seize it! I was advocating for just this perspective in a career seminar this morning and I come home to find this article the first post in my fb newsfeed. Your article is like a message from G-d, encouraging me on my path. And so creatively written! F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S! Thank you!

(32)
Lil,
September 26, 2011 5:39 PM

My missions have not been my paid job. It's what I do outside of my job. It has opened doors on the job, by the interest of others of my mission at the present times. The company has corporate it at times within my job, where then I was getting paid to combine the two, however, that was their decision and wasn't the main mission that I do outside of my job. My missions over the years, and they do change from time to time, has no earthly boss to minister how it is to be done. That is the difference between a job or career and having a mission for your life. A mission is a gift from God. That brings purpose to our mundane lives, bringing joy when we are operating in that gift, wherever and whenever we have the opportunity to do so.

(31)
Sara,
September 26, 2011 4:48 PM

Some pleasure for you...

I'm glad for the opportunity to give you pleasure... I honestly feel that (to put it in the words from your article) “This was exactly what I needed to read today.” Thanks so much, and Shana Tovah.

(30)
Birk,
September 26, 2011 4:25 PM

Your Children

I enjoyed your article. I wanted to point out one idea that seemed to slip through the cracks / overlooked. For some, like myself, the global vision of raising your family can be your unique goal. Like anything there are levels of being a good parent. During these trying financial times one thing stayed amazing and became almost like a daily miracle. That is our children. The joke is, you take care of your kids now and they will take care of you later. In truth taking care of your kids keeps you at a high spiritual level today. Sending them to yeshiva gives the parent the enjoyment of hearing their kids give a dvar torah Friday night. While very important to help community, we don't have to leave our home or reinvent the wheel to find that unique spark that gets us excited every day. Sometimes it is sitting right in front of us.

(29)
Mary Jane,
September 26, 2011 10:17 AM

Perfect Timing

What a great piece! Many thanks for pointing out the obvious that all of us find way too easy to ignore.

(28)
Anonymous,
September 26, 2011 4:22 AM

THANK YOU!!

I cant even believe this article. Just last night i was asking god to help me figure out what to do that i felt lost and then this turns up the next day!!!!
WOW
THANKS!! you helped me so much!!

(27)
suzzanne nemick,
September 26, 2011 3:25 AM

this made me remember how many joyful moments I have in my life...and what my life mission is . Horsetraining. and to teach children autistic and otherwise to ride and if that doesn't work out to be a picture painter of horses in landscapes surrounded by the holy spirit.

(26)
Limor,
September 26, 2011 3:09 AM

What's Next? I'm lost!

I really believe in all you said, but i don't know what my purpose is. My biggest desire is to create, improve, start from scratch and invent a whole new world of ideas and possibilities. Where does that lead me what's next? I'm 19 and I still don't know what to do in life and what career to fulfill? I love anything about art, the idea of creating something new. All I hear is that there is no hope for me to work in that field because I won't get far in life and it won't support me. What do you suggest? I'm really lost and it's been bugging me for a long time. Any word of advice is greatly appreciated! Tizki LeMitzvot! Chag Sameach and Shana Tova!

Sara Yoheved Rigler,
September 26, 2011 1:08 PM

Dear Limor,
When I was 19, I had no idea what my mission was (nor at 29 for that matter!). Your conflict reminds me of my brother's. At 21, he wanted to be an artist, but my father, a'h, convinced him to become a doctor because he'd never make a living as an artist. He did become a doctor, but after many years took up art in his spare time. It has become the joy of his life. Personally, I have always followed my own intuition as to livlihood (while I was willing to live very, very simply), and I trusted God to take care of me, which He has done! I did go to college, and got a degree in psychology, which I never used, in order to please my parents. Right now, while your path is not clear to you, remember that you have an important mitzvah to honor your parents. In the merit of fulfilling that mitzvah, may Hashem illuminate your path. Shana tova.

Anonymous,
December 23, 2011 5:44 AM

Wonderful, but...

I cried through this article, especially at the end. The part where you speak of caring for one's children. In the first place, how is that a "global" mission, while, say, writing a book on addiction is a "personal" mission. It would seem to me quite the other way around, a book having, to the naked eye, much more "global" reach than one's family obligations. But what hurt me was this: I am a mother of 7, bli ayin hara. I have devoted the last 15 years of my life nearly exclusively to being a mother, homemaker and wife. Perhaps I take things to an extreme, but I can literally count on one hand the number of times I have left my children with babysitters before they were asleep, or been away from home when they came home from school, etc. Yet, at the risk of tooting my own horn, I am a relatively talented person. i am musical, a fairly talented writer, and I have an affinity for nature, especially animals of all types. I have also had success in counseling, an outgrowth of my teaching positions. The question of what I would do with "time and money" has dozens of answers for me. Take up piano again, learn another instrument, become a therapist, take up gardening, knitting, the list of things I wold like to do is long and varied. But I have put them all aside for what I considered my "mission." Your closing words seem to indicate that I am "wasting" 20-30 years of my life in raising my children because it inevitably postpones fulfillment of what you call my "personal mission." - and who is to say how many more G-d will grant me? Maybe I will not have a chance to fulfill any other mission! Why is not the raising of children considered one's mission?" why is it only tangential, something to get through on the road to fulfilling that mission? Is this truly the Torah perspective? Should I be running to "do chesed" or focusing more on myself instead of devoting my life to my children? It was always my conviction that that was not what Hashem wants of me. Am I wrong?

Ann,
September 26, 2011 4:36 PM

Maybe This is for You

Limor, you may very well be a screenwriter waiting to be born. Film is a world you create to be anything you want. It is hard work, and the odds are tough, but so satisfying - and even a small project pays well. Listen closely, HaShem has stories for you to capture onto paper. As for not going far in a life devoted to art, ask Steven Spielberg or Jeff Goldblum what they think about that one! Shanah Tovak u'Metukah!

Larry,
September 27, 2011 7:21 AM

My wife began her art 'career' 25 years ago. It took 8 years to get her BFA (ceramics and painting) and at her graduation Senior show everyone (especially her family) were insisting she come back to earth and get a 'real' job.
Well together we discounted that advice and committed to her establishing a career in 'art'.
School curriculum provides nothing in the way of how to make a living as a painter or ceramicist; it was tenuous but she was diligent (worked any jobs, art or not) until now all she does is her work - painting, ceramics, teaches college ceramic's continuing ed., and interior design/decorating. She makes a very good living.
This mission article is spot on; as human beings quality of life is directly related to how we spend our time - a majority of which is at our vocation of choiice. My experience is it's worth pursuing what your heart inspires in you.

(25)
Rivky,
September 26, 2011 1:21 AM

AMAZING ARTICLE

wow that was so incredible and really hit home! Feel so much more prepared to go in to RH. Thank you very much!

(24)
Ann Brady,
September 26, 2011 12:55 AM

A Blessing in Print

I am so happy you write for Aish, because I would never have read you otherwise! This fine article should be printed on flyers and dropped onto the schoolyards of every high school. You've dropped it into my heart and I am so thankful to G-d and to you for being one of His special writers. Shana Tova dear one.

(23)
EGE,
September 26, 2011 12:53 AM

Thank you!

Thank you so much for this article! Now I don't have to feel guilty about spending time writing that novel that just won't go out of my mind. It's the one thing in the world that I have an insatiable drive to do, and now I know why.

(22)
lisa,
September 26, 2011 12:06 AM

we all need clarity in out live's.....

What if you really dont know your life's mission....& all you do see is time slipping away??

Anonymous,
September 26, 2011 4:40 PM

This is what you do...

Look in the other direction, at what HaShem is pointing out to you to do, dear one. Time is His gift.

(21)
Victoria,
September 25, 2011 11:48 PM

Just what I needed

My sister sent me your article. What timing! I have been wrestling with "my purpose" for decades and trying to figure out (in the present) why I'm feeling like a square peg forcing myself into a round hole. Your article, the quotes mentioned there, and the list of questions you have suggested for self-reflection have helped me to clarify everything! Often, we have that knowingness - deep down - but somehow hearing it from another gives us the nudge and inspiration to put our inner-knowing into action. Also, understanding that because we are unable to get to the "doing" in the moment, does not mean we should abandon our mission. That "pause" can be an important part of our mission as well. Thanks again. I'm fired up!

(20)
Anonymous,
September 25, 2011 11:26 PM

wow!thanks!

I think this is the second article i am reading by you, and like the first, it really hits home... I feel quite unclear about mission, but i will, Biezras Hashem try your suggstions! thank you!

(19)
Becker Aileen,
September 25, 2011 11:07 PM

Thank you

Thank you

(18)
ahuva wittenstein,
September 25, 2011 10:05 PM

inspiring, lovely article,The energy generated by the self awareness
you suggest is a gift! Thank you

(17)
Anonymous,
September 25, 2011 9:36 PM

bothered by line about quitting the magazine

You write that you resigned from writing for a women’s magazine that features how to fold napkins and sculpt vegetables. I can imagine it was one of 2 magazines, but yo could have made it inspiring if you would have continued to write, just because theres not an imediate comment doesnt mean that youre not insiring. it bothers me that you commented in your article about the magazine. it seems a bit snide

(16)
Sharon,
September 25, 2011 9:05 PM

Thank you

Thank you for encouraging me to think more deeply about my life and my place in our world
L'Shana Tova

(15)
Anonymous,
September 25, 2011 7:38 PM

This is an unclear method of finding peace and fulfillment for me.

It's not so easy to answer either of these questions. The five times in my life I have been happy have to do with travel and music and the "usual" things that you minimize. I already have more than 6 hours daily of discretionary time and if I had scads of money, I can't imagine what I would do, only what I would not do and that is, not worry about my future.

(14)
Barbara,
September 25, 2011 6:59 PM

Thank you

My boyfriend sent me this article. We know what his life's mission is, and he is slowly accomplishing it. Mine has become clearer since I met him. Your article has given me validation of my dream. Thank you.

this is exactly what i've been stressing about, all while fighting an illness--and within three minutes of reading your article, i found some peace. thank you so much for your wise words. i really hope i get to implement what i now believe to be my mission. shana tova.

(11)
mim,
September 25, 2011 5:17 PM

Inspiring article

Enjoyed your article immensely. A real eye opener - and I agree with the commenter that said "life changing". A clear and concise method to find happiness and a sense of fulfillment in life. Thank you Judy and Shana Tova

(10)
Yosef,
September 25, 2011 5:09 PM

Thank You

Such clarity.....thank you.....

(9)
Shana,
September 25, 2011 4:54 PM

Wow! just plain wow!

Thank you for this piece!

(8)
Anonymous,
September 25, 2011 4:46 PM

thank you

especially for telling us your age- I am bouat yopu age and feel so full of yearnings to still accopmlish anf give back to the world

(7)
Vivienne Tankus,
September 25, 2011 4:42 PM

Brilliant, as always!

As ever, you continue to offer inspiriation. You reach for the loftiest heights, yet you have both feet firmly on the ground. You teach us how to blend the so-called "real" world with the spiritual.
May Hakadosh baruch Hu bless you and your work.
Shana tova,
Vivienne
(Rochelle's Ima)

(6)
SEYMOUR MORRIS,
September 25, 2011 3:34 PM

talking to God during your life is a must if you really believe and want to selfevaluate your personal journey

the article really supported the way I sometimes feel

(5)
Tamar,
September 25, 2011 3:02 PM

This is wisdom applied....

It surely helps to learn to discern what our gifts and callings are in life, and to accept those gifts and callings and run with them with all our might. Yes, doing this does energize us and give us joy in living and doing, it makes "work" fun! It also helps to stop yearning after gifts and callings that are not ours.....a great singer used to make me yearn to be able to do so also, now I can just enjoy THEIR gift. Comparing is not wise. Enoy the gift and calling we have is wisdom. And I enjoy your gift too Sara, I am looking forward to enjoying again soon in person!

(4)
Anonymous,
September 25, 2011 2:27 PM

Profound. Maybe life changing at some levels.
Thank you.
Judy

(3)
Hummusrich,
September 25, 2011 2:20 PM

Well written and inspiring

Well written and inspiring

(2)
Bracha Goetz,
September 25, 2011 1:42 PM

Thank you

for this wonderfully truthful piece!

(1)
Jedf,
September 25, 2011 1:22 PM

Wonderful and timely

Thank you for this wonderful article. After changing my career after 31 years, this summarizes why people say I look better! Following your mission works!
Shanah Tovah!